Holster Options

MAKE Comp-Tac Victory GearMODEL WarriorFITS 1911 3-inch, Glock 17/19 sizes, HK VP9 SK, SIG P320 compact, S&W M&P Shield, Walther PPQ/M2 4-inchMSRP $75FURTHERwww.comp-tac.comNOTES Comp-Tac’s new Warrior holster is a minimal-looking, outside-the-waistband rig with a few tricks up its Kydex shell. The holster has a set of four ride height grommets on each side that provide a wide variety of cants, from neutral to crazy cross draw angles, by positioning the included 1.5-inch, hard belt loops. The shell itself is mid-weight 0.093-inch-thick Kydex, tough enough to withstand many years of carrying and training. One thing we like about the Warrior is its versatility. The cut will accept a wide variety of optics and the open muzzle means a holster cut for a compact will accept threaded barrels and longer slide versions of the same pistol — just be aware that carrying an exposed muzzle means the pistol can be pushed out of the holster when sitting down. The holster tucks in tight, rides high, and conceals well. Retention is solid and adjustable with a trigger guard screw.

MAKE Clinger HolsterMODEL Comfort ClingFITS Universal (Models for Double and Single Stack)MSRP $20FURTHERwww.clingerholsters.comNOTES We aren’t fans of universal-fit holsters, nor soft holsters, for that matter. But there’s a time and place for them, and this column is called “Options” for a reason. The Clinger is darned comfortable thanks to a layer of padding sandwiched between the grippy outside fabric and slippery nylon lining. We can’t feel any pokey parts of the pistol. The rubbery outer fabric holds the holster in place quite well with a belt providing some tension. And the inner nylon lining is slick, providing smooth draws. The larger size fits a Glock 19 and SIG 229 perfectly, and the low-profile edging reduces the chance of a sight snagging during your draw. Holstering takes more attention and should probably happen with the holster in your hand before stuffing the whole thing back down your pants. We’re also aware this holstering method means your pistol will be in a slightly different position each time you reach for it, but all things considered, the Clinger is a much safer, more comfortable option than Mexican carry.